In the winter of 2015, freezing winds swept across Australia, bringing snow, ice and frost. The sudden plunge in temperatures caused water pipes in many homes to freeze, with devastating consequences for the homeowners. When water freezes, it expands, which can split the pipe open. When temperatures warm up and the ice melts, water can flood the home, leading to extensive water damage. Here are some tips to help you avoid this disaster this winter.
Wrap Your Pipes Up Warm
The best way to prevent pipes from freezing is to keep them warm during the cold winter weather. Try wrapping insulation foam around all the exposed water pipes in and around your home. Don't forget the pipes in your basement and attic, which are most at risk during freezing weather. You can buy insulation foam and tape for securing the foam to the pipes in your local hardware store.
Protect Your Garden Hose
Your garden hose is a potential hazard during winter. If the water inside the hose freezes, the pressure in your entire pipe system can increase to dangerous levels, leading to a burst somewhere inside your home. When cold weather is forecast, it's a good idea to disconnect your hose, drain out the water and put it away until spring.
Think Ahead
Planning a trip away? Be sure to check the weather forecast first. If freezing temperatures are forecast, turn off the water supply and open the taps in your bathroom and kitchen to drain water from the pipes. If temperatures drop below zero during your vacation, you can rest assured that you won't come home to a flood.
If All Else Fails, Call a Plumber
If you turn on a tap and nothing comes out, you may have a frozen pipe. In this case, you need to find the frozen section and check for bursts or splits before you allow the ice to melt. The safest approach is to call an emergency plumber who can help you find the frozen pipe and safely thaw it out. If the pipe has burst, the plumber can replace it before the ice melts and causes a flood in your home.
Act Now
Don't wait until the weather turns cold to protect your home. Get to know where your water pipes are located, wrap them in foam to keep them warm, and program the number of a local plumber into your phone so you are prepared for winter.
For more information, contact A and C Plumbing or a similar company.
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